New York

New York’s five boroughs–The Bronx, Queens, Brooklyn, Staten Island, and Manhattan–each have their own unique culture and vibe. But none is perhaps as popular on the tourist radar as Manhattan. If you are studying with CISL’s Junior Program in New York City, here are just a few of the many major attractions Manhattan has to offer. How many will you visit?

1. Times Square

Some of its nicknames include “The Center of the Universe” and “The Crossroads of the World.” Over 39 million people visit Times Square each year, so we can see why it has earned these nicknames! We can’t possibly mention all of the great things to do and see in Times Square, but make sure to see the famous Broadway street and theater, and also check out some of Times Square’s cooler shops, like the famous Midtown Comics, the hidden Cafe Edison (in the Hotel Edison), and the 1950’s style Smith’s Bar & Grill.

2. Central Park

The huge cities and skyscrapers are great . . . but sometimes you need a break from it all, and Central Park provides a beautiful escape to nature (plus plenty of entertainment!). Take a horse-drawn carriage ride, relax on the grass with your friends (or play a sport), go ice skating in the winter and enjoy free concerts in the summer. A day in Central Park is a guaranteed fun day.

3. The Empire State Building

It’s not just one of the tallest buildings in the world: it’s also one of the most beautiful, and is a focal point of the most famous city skyline on the planet. The Empire State Building is over 1,000 feet high, and a trip to its top is a “must” for NYC tourists. The elevator only takes you so far, so be prepared to walk a few flights of stairs to get to the 103rd floor! And make sure to take plenty of selfies while you are on top of the world.

4. The Metropolitan Museum of Art

You could get lost in this beautiful museum: each room is different, and breathtaking! Photo from the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Called “The Met” by many, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the largest art museum in the United States, and has over 2 million works! Perhaps the most famous include Van Gogh’s “Self Portrait with Straw Hat,” or the Egyptian mummies, or the Picassos . . . we can’t possibly choose! End your visit with a bite to eat on the beautiful rooftop that overlooks Central Park. It’s a great way to view New York!

5. Rockefeller Center

“Objectivist1” by Michael Greene – originally posted to Flickr as Atlas 2. Licensed under CC BY 2.0 via Wikimedia Commons

It’s not just a collection of massive skyscrapers: Rockefeller Center is full of history, and always full of activities! Wake up early and stand outside the Today show and get the chance to be on television, enjoy the beautiful artwork around the square (including the Statue of Atlas, pictured above), and walk around the professionals while pretending that you’re in a scene from one of the many movies that are set in New York.

The list of things to do and see in Manhattan could go on and on: the food to eat, the places to shop, the activities to experience . . . the long lists prove why New York is one of the most exciting cities in the world! What will you do while you’re in Manhattan?